Journalism will be dismantled, withdraw bill: Solih

Former President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih has called for the withdrawal of the Maldives Media and Broadcasting Regulation Bill, warning it poses a serious threat to press freedom.

The bill, submitted to parliament by Thulhaadhoo MP Abdul Hannan Aboobakuru, was debated on yesterday.

Solih on X, said the bill amounted to an attack on journalists and would “destroy free press altogether.”

“This bill, which would abolish the media and take severe action against individual journalists, will destroy free press altogether,” he said.

“I call for the withdrawal of this bill which is proposed to deprive the freedom of the media which is responsible for monitoring and holding the three branches of state accountable.”

Under the proposed bill:

- Journalists could be fined between MVR 5,000 and MVR 25,000 for violating the code of conduct

- Media outlets could face fines of up to MVR 100,000

- Registrations could be suspended or cancelled while cases are being investigated

- Websites could be blocked while under investigation

- Media Commission could order broadcasters to halt transmissions

The commission would have seven members, with three appointed by the President following parliament approval and four elected by the media.

The President would also appoint its Chairperson.

A special committee to review content-related issues would be composed of commission members and representatives from the media sector.

Both Maldives Media Council and the Maldives Journalists Association (MJA) have voiced strong opposition to the bill, saying it threatens the independence of the press and stipulates sweeping penalties.

Defending the bill, MP Hannan said it was designed to empower journalists and strengthen their role as the “fourth estate.”

“Under this bill, four of the seven members of the commission will be elected by the media. This gives the media full powers, privileges and rights,” he said, adding that the law would ensure the spread of accurate news.